Where You Park Matters

Choosing where to end the day can influence how vulnerable a truck and trailer are while unattended. Well-lit locations with regular activity, controlled access, and clear visibility generally provide more security than isolated areas with limited traffic.

Before shutting down, take a few minutes to evaluate the property. Damaged fencing, poor lighting, unsecured entrances, or suspicious activity may be signs that another legal parking location is worth considering if available.

Small Security Steps Can Prevent Bigger Problems

Once the truck is parked, a few simple precautions can make theft more difficult. Industry experts recommend using high-security trailer locks when appropriate, securing landing gear on dropped trailers, and keeping shipping paperwork, bills of lading, and other cargo documents out of plain sight. Those documents can provide valuable information about the freight and its destination.

The same approach applies before accepting load updates. Verifying dispatch changes, pickup numbers, and delivery instructions through trusted company contacts can help reduce the risk of freight fraud involving stolen identities or fictitious carriers.

Long Stops Create More Opportunity for Theft

Time can also work in a thief’s favor. It is widely advised to try to reduce the amount of time loaded equipment sits unattended whenever possible because extended weekends and holiday periods often leave trailers parked longer while businesses operate with reduced staffing.

Parking with a plan, limiting unnecessary stops, and selecting locations that provide better visibility all help reduce exposure while a truck is off the road.

Another Tool Drivers Can Add to Their Trip Planning

Knowing where you’ll park before reaching the end of your shift can eliminate the uncertainty of searching for an available space after nearby lots have filled. Truck Parking Club is a nationwide marketplace for reservable truck and trailer parking at participating trucking terminals, warehouses, repair shops, storage facilities, and other commercial properties across the United States.

Whether the goal is reducing time spent searching for parking or securing a space before arriving in an unfamiliar area, reservable parking gives drivers another option when planning a trip. Through the CDAI Powered by TDUSA partnership with Truck Parking Club, TDUSA readers can receive $20 off their first booking by using promo code TDUSA20 when reserving through the TDUSA Truck Parking Club link here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does cargo theft most often occur?

According to the FBI, cargo theft commonly occurs at truck stops, parking lots, roadside parking areas, drop lots, and other locations where loaded trailers are left unattended.

What information should drivers keep out of sight?

The FBI recommends securing shipping paperwork and cargo documents because they may reveal valuable information about the load and its destination.

Why do long holiday weekends increase cargo theft risk?

CargoNet reports that loaded equipment often remains unattended longer during holiday periods while some facilities operate with reduced staffing, creating additional opportunities for theft.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 25, 2026

The post Parked for the Night? These Simple Security Checks Can Help Protect Your Truck and Cargo appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Colorado’s I-70 reaches the highest elevation anywhere on the Interstate system at the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel. From there, the elevations vary considerably depending on the terrain each route follows. I-80 stays above 6,000 feet throughout Wyoming before encountering another major mountain crossing in California, while I-25 uses Raton Pass to cross between Colorado and New Mexico.

I-70 Reaches the Highest Point in the Interstate System

About 60 miles west of Denver, I-70 passes beneath the Continental Divide through the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel. The Federal Highway Administration identifies it as the highest point on the Interstate Highway System, with the twin tunnels averaging 11,112 feet in elevation.

The west portal reaches 11,158 feet, while the east portal sits at 11,013 feet. Much of that elevation is gained as I-70 follows Clear Creek west from the Denver area and climbs into the Rocky Mountains.

The surroundings change noticeably along the way. Lower sections of the corridor pass through forests of ponderosa pine, juniper and Douglas fir, while Engelmann spruce, limber pine and subalpine fir become more common higher in the mountains. The treeline in the area sits at roughly 11,480 feet, putting the tunnel portals only a few hundred feet below an elevation where continuous forest can no longer grow.

Construction offered another indication of the scale of the mountains. Crews blasted and drilled through 7,789 feet of rock and earth beneath the Continental Divide to create the original Eisenhower bore. It opened in 1973, and the Johnson bore followed in 1979.

The roadway continues climbing inside the roughly 1.7-mile tunnel, rising toward the west at an average 1.64% grade. The surrounding terrain rises higher still, with nearby Loveland Pass on U.S. 6 reaching almost 12,000 feet.

I-70 Returns Above 10,000 Feet at Vail Pass

After leaving the tunnel, I-70 descends into Summit County before heading toward another high point at Vail Pass. The highway reaches 10,666 feet there, giving I-70 two crossings above 10,000 feet within roughly 40 highway miles.

The elevation between them changes considerably. Silverthorne sits at roughly 8,700 feet, so I-70 gives up more than 2,000 feet of elevation after crossing the Continental Divide before gaining much of it back on the approach to Vail Pass.

At Vail Pass, the highway travels over the mountain terrain rather than through it. From the summit, I-70 descends toward Vail and the Eagle River Valley before continuing west across Colorado.

The combination of the Eisenhower-Johnson tunnel and Vail Pass packs a large amount of vertical change into a relatively short portion of the Interstate. A vehicle traveling west crosses the Continental Divide above 11,000 feet, drops into Summit County, climbs back above 10,000 feet, and then begins another lengthy descent.

I-80 Spends 402 Miles Above 6,000 Feet in Wyoming

I-80 reaches a lower maximum elevation as it crosses Wyoming, although high terrain continues for far longer.

U.S. Department of Transportation research found that the entire 402-mile stretch of I-80 between the Utah and Nebraska state lines remains above 6,000 feet. Its highest point is Sherman Summit between Cheyenne and Laramie at 8,640 feet.

Cheyenne already sits at approximately 6,000 feet, and I-80 gains about 2,600 additional feet as it heads west toward the summit. The Wyoming Highway Patrol describes the Sherman Hill section as a winding climb through Telephone Canyon with average grades around 6%.

After reaching the summit, I-80 continues across Wyoming’s high interior rather than returning quickly to low elevations. The route passes through the Red Desert and the unusual Great Divide Basin, where the Continental Divide splits around a closed drainage basin. Water that falls inside the basin does not drain toward either ocean.

The corridor also carries a substantial amount of commercial traffic. Federal transportation research found that trucks account for about 30% to 55% of annual traffic along I-80 in Wyoming, with the share reaching as high as 70% during some seasonal periods.

I-80 Makes Another Major Climb in California

Farther west, the same Interstate crosses the Sierra Nevada between California’s Central Valley and the Nevada border.

The route climbs from the lower Sierra foothills toward the Donner Summit area, where I-80 reaches roughly 7,200 feet. Auburn, near the western end of the climb, sits at approximately 1,200 feet, creating an elevation difference of about 6,000 feet between the lower foothills and the Sierra crest.

The landscape changes steadily along the route as I-80 passes through Auburn, Colfax, and the higher communities approaching Truckee. The highway eventually crosses the Sierra crest before descending toward the Truckee River and Nevada.

That section adds another dimension to I-80’s cross-country elevation profile. The highway crosses the Sierra Nevada in California, runs through lower desert terrain farther east, and then spends its entire 402-mile trip across Wyoming above 6,000 feet.

I-25 Crosses an Older Route Through the Mountains

I-25 reaches 7,834 feet at Raton Pass on the Colorado-New Mexico border, where the highway crosses the eastern side of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains between Trinidad and Raton.

The pass had already served travelers for generations before construction of the Interstate. Routes through the area became part of the Santa Fe Trail, and railroads later used the same general mountain crossing. I-25 eventually brought Interstate traffic through a corridor whose geography had influenced transportation long before modern highways arrived.

Trinidad sits at approximately 6,000 feet, placing the pass about 1,800 feet higher than the city to its north. Raton sits around 6,600 feet on the New Mexico side.

The elevation of Raton Pass falls well below Colorado’s highest I-70 crossings, yet its history shows why many modern highways follow corridors established much earlier. Valleys, gaps, and mountain passes provided practical routes through difficult terrain, and later transportation networks continued using many of them.

One Interstate Can Cross Several Different Elevation Zones

The western Interstate network contains several distinct types of high-elevation travel within only a handful of major routes.

I-70 reaches the national Interstate high point beneath the Continental Divide and then climbs above 10,000 feet again at Vail Pass. I-80 remains at high elevation for hundreds of miles across Wyoming while also making a roughly 6,000-foot climb into the Sierra Nevada in California. I-25 follows a mountain crossing that has served transportation between Colorado and New Mexico since long before the Interstate system existed.

The routes also show how differently a highway can reach its high point. Some begin their climb from already-elevated plains or plateaus, while others rise thousands of feet from lower valleys and foothills. Tunnels, natural passes and broad high basins all became part of the network that eventually connected the country from coast to coast.

For professional truck drivers who cover these corridors, the Interstate shield may stay the same for hundreds of miles while the elevation, vegetation, and surrounding landscape change.

FAQ

Are any U.S. Interstates above 12,000 feet?

No. The Interstate Highway System tops out on I-70 at Colorado’s Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel. The west portal reaches 11,158 feet, leaving the system’s highest point below 12,000 feet.

Why didn’t I-70 simply cross over the Continental Divide at Loveland Pass?

The surrounding terrain reaches higher elevations than the tunnel route. Loveland Pass on nearby U.S. 6 reaches approximately 11,992 feet, while the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel carries I-70 beneath the Continental Divide at an average elevation of 11,112 feet.

What is the Great Divide Basin along I-80?

The Great Divide Basin in Wyoming is an area where the Continental Divide splits into two branches and surrounds a closed drainage basin. Water inside the basin does not flow toward the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean. Instead, it remains within the basin and eventually evaporates or soaks into the ground.

Does crossing the Continental Divide always mean reaching a highway’s highest point?

No. A highway can cross the Continental Divide without reaching its maximum elevation at that location. The divide marks the boundary between major drainage systems, while a route’s highest point depends on the surrounding terrain and the path the highway follows.

Why do modern Interstates sometimes follow much older transportation routes?

Mountain geography limits the practical places where roads, railroads and trails can cross difficult terrain. Natural passes and valleys that worked for earlier transportation often remained useful when newer highways were built, which is why corridors such as Raton Pass have carried several generations of transportation.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 25, 2026

The post Where America’s Interstates Reach Their Highest Elevations appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The effort focused on increasing awareness of potential human trafficking during large international events and providing professional drivers, motor carriers, law enforcement officers, and the public with information about recognizing and reporting suspected trafficking.

Thousands of Awareness Materials Distributed

CVSA collected results from participating jurisdictions between June 1 and July 30. During that period, agencies distributed 4,484 human trafficking awareness materials, including 2,851 wallet cards, 767 window decals, 704 postcards, and 162 posters.

Enforcement personnel also delivered 37 presentations, hosted 11 public events and made 41 media contacts.

Some of that outreach took place directly with commercial vehicle drivers. Participating agencies discussed reporting resources with drivers following roadside inspections, added anti-trafficking information to inspection reports, and distributed wallet cards and decals.

The initiative was organized as millions of visitors, workers, and fans traveled throughout North America for the international competition. CVSA worked with TAT, formerly known as Truckers Against Trafficking, on the effort.

Roadside Inspections Were Part of the Initiative

Roadside inspections were also incorporated into the campaign because they give enforcement personnel opportunities to interact with commercial vehicle occupants and potentially identify signs of trafficking.

Inspectors completed 4,340 Level I, II, and III inspections during the initiative. Among those inspections, 237 commercial motor vehicles were reported as carrying passengers. Inspectors documented 244 authorized passengers and three unauthorized passengers.

CVSA did not report that the unauthorized passengers were connected to human trafficking cases.

The inspection component ran alongside the initiative’s broader education efforts, with commercial vehicle personnel receiving information about warning signs and reporting resources during routine interactions with enforcement.

Commercial Transportation Remains Part of CVSA’s Prevention Efforts

CVSA has continued to involve the commercial transportation community in its human trafficking prevention work because professional drivers, inspectors, and other transportation personnel regularly spend time at highways, truck stops, rest areas, border crossings, and other locations where suspicious activity may be observed.

The special summer initiative followed CVSA’s regular 2026 Human Trafficking Awareness Initiative, which involved 56 jurisdictions across North America earlier in the year. That separate campaign included nearly 39,000 Level I, II and III inspections and the distribution of tens of thousands of awareness materials.

CVSA’s Human Trafficking Prevention Program continues throughout the year with education, outreach, and coordination among law enforcement and the commercial motor vehicle industry.

In the United States, suspected human trafficking can be reported to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 25, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: CVSA

The post CVSA Reports Results from Human Trafficking Initiative During International Soccer Competition appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Macomb, Michigan, resident plans to use the truck to launch his own trucking business, building on a career that has included military service, commercial driving, and training other professional drivers.

A Career Shaped by Service and Trucking

Al-Kadhim’s connection to the U.S. military began before he immigrated to the United States. He worked as an interpreter and translator supporting U.S. Marines and Army units during combat operations before later becoming a U.S. citizen.

His service continued after arriving in the country. Al-Kadhim enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard, where he trained as a truck driver, an experience that eventually led to a civilian career in commercial trucking.

He went on to become an experienced driver and trainer focused on developing safe, disciplined, and accountable professionals. Al-Kadhim has also remained involved with organizations supporting veterans and military families.

Those experiences helped lead to his selection for Progressive’s Keys to Progress program, which provides vehicles to veterans and veteran-focused organizations.

“We’re proud to recognize veterans whose service continues long after they leave the military,” Progressive Commercial Lines President Karen Bailo said. “Fahad’s journey is one of courage, perseverance, and purpose.”

Freightliner Opens the Door to Business Ownership

For Al-Kadhim, receiving the Cascadia represents an opportunity to build on the career he has already established behind the wheel.

“What started as a passion for giving back to my community from behind the wheel can now be turned into providing me with the tools to build my own business,” Al-Kadhim said. “I am deeply grateful to Progressive for believing in me and allowing me to pursue my dream of owning my own trucking business.”

Progressive said the award was intended to help turn those plans into a reality while recognizing Al-Kadhim’s continued commitment to veterans, professional driving and his community.

Several organizations contributed to the effort, including About Velocity, 1-800-Charity Cars, Insurance Auto Auctions Inc. and Veracity Research Co. Investigations. The veteran-owned Veracity Research assisted with the recipient selection process.

With the Freightliner now providing the foundation for his next step, Al-Kadhim will be able to take the experience he developed through military service, commercial driving, and driver training into a trucking operation of his own.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 25, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Progressive

The post Army Veteran Receives Freightliner Cascadia to Launch His Own Trucking Business appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The key is separating places that actually accommodate a tractor-trailer from places that simply have showers. Checking parking, shower access, and any additional fees before making a detour can help avoid arriving somewhere that will not work with the truck.

Check Independent Truck Parking Facilities

Some independent truck-parking properties combine commercial vehicle parking with showers and other amenities, making them one of the more practical alternatives to a traditional truck stop.

A Truck Parking Club property in Red Bay, Alabama, for example, lists truck-and-trailer parking along with showers that are free for parked drivers. The property also provides 24-hour restroom access.

Another truck-and-trailer parking property in Jefferson, South Carolina lists free showers among its amenities and allows oversized vehicles.

Free shower access is not universal. A Clarion, Pennsylvania, parking location lists paid showers, restrooms, and laundry, while a Watervliet, Michigan, property also lists paid showers and laundry alongside truck-and-trailer parking.

There are properties where more amenities are bundled together as well. Truck-and-trailer parking in Escanaba, Michigan, lists free showers, laundry and a driver lounge on-site.

Amenities differ from one property to another, so check the current listing before arriving rather than assuming every location offers showers.

Search for the Parking First

When traveling with a tractor-trailer, starting with legal truck parking can make the search easier. Instead of locating a public shower and then trying to determine where the truck can go, look for truck-parking properties and check which ones include showers.

Truck Parking Club is one resource that includes individual amenity information on its property listings. Showers may be identified as free or paid, while other listings can include restrooms, laundry, and additional facilities.

Starting with the parking also eliminates many options that look useful in a general search but are not practical with a semi. A gym or fitness center may have showers without having a parking lot where a tractor-trailer is permitted.

Gyms Can Work When the Truck Is Already Parked

Gyms become a different type of option when the truck is already legally parked, and the facility can be reached without moving it.

Anytime Fitness lists private restrooms and showers among its facilities and amenities, although the company notes that amenities can vary by location. Individual club pages should therefore be checked before relying on a particular facility.

Access is another consideration. Membership and guest policies can differ by location, so a driver who is not already a member should contact the individual gym to determine whether short-term access is available and what it includes.

This option does not solve the truck-parking question. Unless a particular property explicitly permits commercial vehicles, do not assume a gym parking lot can accommodate a tractor-trailer. A gym is more useful when the truck is already parked legally, and the location can be reached on foot, by rideshare or through another local transportation option.

Verify the Details Before Heading Over

Whether the shower is at a truck-parking property or somewhere off-site, current access information matters. Check whether the shower is operating, whether there is a separate fee, and whether any restrictions apply.

For independent truck parking, review the property’s current amenity listing when making the reservation. For an off-site facility such as a gym, verify both shower access and visitor requirements directly with that location.

Hours can matter as well. A facility described as open 24 hours may provide around-the-clock access only to members or registered customers, while staff assistance and guest entry may be available during a smaller window.

Build the Search Around the Truck

The closest shower is not necessarily the most practical one when a tractor-trailer is involved. Legal parking should remain part of the search from the beginning.

Checking independent truck-parking properties for showers can solve both needs at the same location. When that is not available, securing legal parking first can make nearby gyms or other facilities worth considering without creating another parking problem.

Resources such as Truck Parking Club can help identify parking properties that list showers among their amenities, while individual gym websites can provide another place to check once the truck is already parked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do independent truck-parking facilities have showers?

Some do. Current truck-parking listings in Alabama, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Michigan include properties with free or paid showers. Amenities vary by location.

How can I find truck parking with a shower?

Check the amenities listed for individual truck-parking properties rather than searching only for parking. Truck Parking Club is one resource where individual locations can identify showers and other driver amenities.

Can truck drivers use gym showers while traveling?

A gym can be an option when its access policy allows it and the truck is already parked legally elsewhere. Anytime Fitness, for example, lists private showers among its amenities but notes that facilities can vary by location.

Can I park a semi at a gym while using the shower?

Do not assume so. Unless the individual property explicitly permits commercial vehicle parking, arrange legal truck parking separately before considering an off-site gym.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 24, 2026

The post Having Trouble Finding a Shower on the Road? Here’s Where Else to Look appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

While the two models share much of the same technology, they differ in weight, noise control, comfort, and hands-free features, giving each a distinct place in the lineup.

Pro B350 Keeps the Focus on a Lighter Design

At 4.2 ounces, the Pro B350 is the lighter of the two headsets. Its over-the-head design includes a cushioned earcup and lightweight headband, while passive noise reduction helps limit surrounding sound on the listening side.

Battery life reaches up to 40 hours of talk time on a full charge. When there is less time available, a 30-minute charge can provide up to 12.5 hours of talk time.

The B350 also carries an IP54 rating for protection against dust and moisture, including light rain.

Pro B450 Adds More Noise Control and Hands-Free Features

The Pro B450 builds on the same voice-isolation technology while adding Active Noise Cancellation for the wearer. Its listening modes allow users to switch between ANC On, HearThrough, and ANC Off depending on how much surrounding sound they want to hear.

BlueParrott also extends talk time to as much as 45 hours and adds cushioning across the earcup, headband and T-bar. The headset weighs 4.8 ounces and carries an IP55 rating for protection against dust and water.

Another distinction is 100% VoiceControl, which allows supported headset functions to be operated with voice commands. Like the B350, the B450 includes the customizable BlueParrott Button and supports simultaneous connections with two devices.

Choosing Between the Pro B350 and Pro B450

The differences between the two models give drivers a straightforward place to start when deciding between them. Those who prioritize a lighter headset may lean toward the Pro B350, while the Pro B450 offers additional listening controls and hands-free functionality for those who want those features built in.

Shop the BlueParrott Pro B350 and Pro B450 to find the Pro Series headset that fits your needs on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much background noise do the Pro B350 and Pro B450 microphones reduce?

BlueParrott says the AI-powered voice-isolation microphones in both models can block up to 98% of background noise during calls.

What does HearThrough do on the Pro B450?

HearThrough allows surrounding sound to reach the wearer when greater awareness of the environment is preferred. The B450 can switch between HearThrough, ANC On, and ANC Off.

How quickly can the Pro B350 and Pro B450 recharge?

Both models can provide up to 12.5 hours of talk time from a 30-minute charge, while a full charge takes approximately 1.8 hours.

Can the Pro B350 and Pro B450 stay connected to two devices?

Yes. Both support multipoint Bluetooth and can maintain two active device connections at the same time.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 24, 2026

Image Source: Blue Parrott

The post BlueParrott Introduces Pro B350 and Pro B450 Headsets for Professional Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

MC Carrier LLC driver apprentice Gabriel Popa was named a TCA Highway Angel for his actions after the Feb. 28 collision near Rogerson, Idaho. His mentor and co-driver, Nahum Camacho, had been asleep in the sleeper berth when the crash occurred.

Early-Morning Crash on U.S. 93

Popa was traveling southbound on U.S. 93 around 4 a.m. when an impaired driver crossed into the truck’s path near a curve. Popa braked and attempted to avoid the approaching vehicle, but the two vehicles collided.

The impact badly damaged the truck and scattered debris and equipment throughout the cab. Popa noticed smoke and the smell of burning oil after the collision, adding to concerns about getting away from the wreckage quickly.

Camacho had been thrown from the sleeper berth during the crash and was disoriented. After getting out through his own door, Popa returned to the truck when he realized his mentor could not escape on his own.

Popa pulled Camacho from the wreckage and helped carry him to a nearby vehicle. With Camacho barefoot, without a shirt, and shivering in the early-morning cold, Popa also looked for a blanket while they waited for emergency responders.

Experience Before His Trucking Career

Although Popa was still an apprentice at the time, he had previous experience behind the wheel from his service in the U.S. Marine Corps. He had driven Class B trucks while stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

When asked about returning to the damaged truck despite the danger and his own injuries, Popa said his focus was simply on getting his co-driver out safely.

The TCA Highway Angel program has recognized professional truck drivers for acts of kindness, courtesy, and courage on the job since 1997. Nearly 1,500 drivers have received the recognition since the program began.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 24, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Gabriel Popa, TCA, Truckers News

The post Apprentice Driver Named TCA Highway Angel After Helping Mentor Escape Idaho Crash appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Located at Exit 37, the new travel stop became the company’s second Kingman location and included 127 truck parking spaces available free to Love’s customers. The opening brought Love’s total number of truck parking spaces added nationwide in 2026 to 1,262.

More Parking and Services Along I-40

In addition to the 127 truck parking spaces, the Kingman location opened with 26 spaces for bobtails, nine diesel bays, six showers, laundry facilities, and CAT scales.

Food options included Love’s fresh food, Buffalo Wild Wings GO, and Subway. The property also featured a dog park and self-checkout options.

Love’s said the additional parking and fueling capacity was intended to support freight movement along the busy I-40 corridor. Space was also reserved for future electric vehicle chargers, allowing local utility partners to install charging stations if demand develops.

As part of the Kingman opening, Love’s announced $5,000 donations to both Yucca Elementary School and Phoenix Children’s.

Love’s Continues Store Updates

The Kingman opening came as Love’s continued work on its Road Ahead Plan, which includes updates to existing locations across its network.

The company recently completed remodels in Chickasha, Oklahoma; San Antonio, Texas; and Dublin, Georgia. The projects included updated interiors designed to improve traffic flow and the overall in-store experience.

Love’s also made $5,000 charitable donations tied to each remodel, supporting CHRISTUS Children’s Hospital in San Antonio, Oklahoma Children’s Health Foundation in Chickasha, and Atrium Health Levine Children’s in Dublin.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 24, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Love’s Travel Stops

The post New Love’s Travel Stop Adds 127 Truck Parking Spaces in Kingman, Arizona appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A fuel surcharge gives carriers and shippers a way to account for changing diesel prices without renegotiating the transportation rate every time fuel moves. That separation is why rate confirmations often show linehaul and fuel as different line items rather than one combined number.

Why Fuel Surcharges Became Part of Freight Pricing

As diesel prices became more volatile, carriers needed a way to recover changing fuel costs without constantly rewriting transportation contracts. Separating fuel costs from the linehaul rate allowed freight prices to adjust as diesel prices changed while keeping the underlying transportation rate consistent. When diesel prices fall, the surcharge can fall with them while the negotiated linehaul rate generally stays the same.

Many carriers reference the weekly national on-highway diesel price published by the U.S. Energy Information Administration when building their fuel surcharge schedules. The EIA provides the price data, but it does not establish or regulate the formulas companies use. Each carrier, shipper, or broker agreement can set its own method.

There Is No Industry-Wide Formula

Fuel surcharge calculations usually rely on a few basic inputs, but the details vary from one agreement to another. Common factors include a baseline diesel price, an assumed fuel economy, and the current diesel price.

The baseline, often called the peg, represents the amount of fuel cost already built into the linehaul rate. Once the current diesel price rises above that baseline, the surcharge typically begins to increase according to the formula in the contract.

Fuel economy assumptions matter too. A contract that assumes 6.5 mpg will produce a different per-mile surcharge than one using 7.5 mpg because the first assumes the truck burns more fuel over the same distance. That is one reason two loads moving the same mileage can show different fuel surcharge amounts.

The Linehaul Rate and Fuel Surcharge Need to Be Read Together

Looking at the fuel surcharge by itself can create a misleading picture of what a load actually pays. One shipment may carry a larger surcharge but a weaker linehaul rate, while another may show the opposite and still produce better total revenue.

A better comparison starts with the entire rate confirmation. Total pay, loaded miles, deadhead, detention terms, and expected fuel consumption all matter more than one line item.

For example, two 600-mile loads could pay the same gross amount even if one has a larger surcharge. If that load also requires 150 miles of unpaid deadhead while the other requires only 20, the second load may still produce the better return despite the smaller FSC.

Mileage Definitions Matter

Not every fuel surcharge program uses the same mileage basis. Some agreements apply the surcharge only to loaded miles, while others use dispatched miles or another method defined in the contract.

That distinction matters because deadhead can quickly reduce the value of the surcharge. If the FSC applies only while freight is on the truck, fuel burned while repositioning to the pickup is still coming out of the owner-operator’s pocket.

This is why the mileage language in a lease, rate confirmation, or shipper agreement deserves just as much attention as the cents-per-mile surcharge itself.

Fuel Surcharges Do Not Cover Every Fuel Expense

A fuel surcharge is designed to offset changes in diesel cost, not reimburse every gallon burned under every condition. Traffic congestion, extended idling, mountain grades, weather, lower-than-expected fuel economy, and unpaid deadhead can all increase actual fuel expense beyond the assumptions built into the formula.

Timing also matters. Many surcharge schedules are updated weekly using EIA diesel data, while retail pump prices can change daily. When fuel prices move quickly, the surcharge may temporarily lag what owner-operators are paying at the pump.

That gap does not necessarily mean the formula is wrong. It means the schedule is based on a published index and update cycle rather than real-time fuel purchases.

Rate Confirmations Deserve a Closer Look

The way a load is presented can make two offers look more similar than they really are. Some rate confirmations separate linehaul and FSC, while others combine everything into one total.

Before accepting a load, it helps to know whether the surcharge is itemized, what mileage it applies to, how much deadhead is involved, and whether detention or layover pay is available. Those details can change the economics of the trip far more than a slightly higher surcharge.

Owner-operators leased to a carrier should also review the lease agreement to see how fuel surcharge revenue is passed through. The percentage or structure is not automatically the same from one carrier to another.

Fuel Surcharge Is Only One Part of Profitability

The strongest load is not always the one with the highest FSC. Profitability comes from the combination of total revenue, total miles, fuel efficiency, deadhead, wait time, and operating costs.

Treating the fuel surcharge as one piece of the rate instead of a stand-alone measure gives owner-operators a clearer picture of what a load is actually worth. That approach also makes it easier to compare freight on equal terms instead of being distracted by a large surcharge number that may not tell the full story.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a fuel surcharge in trucking?

A fuel surcharge is an additional amount added to the linehaul rate to help account for changes in diesel prices. Many companies base their calculations on weekly diesel price data published by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Who decides how a fuel surcharge is calculated?

The formula is set by agreement between the parties involved, such as the shipper, carrier, or broker. There is no single federally mandated formula.

What does the fuel surcharge peg mean?

The peg is the baseline diesel price assumed to be covered by the linehaul rate. Once current diesel prices rise above that level, the surcharge typically increases according to the contract formula.

Does a fuel surcharge always pay on deadhead miles?

No. Some programs pay only on loaded miles, while others use dispatched miles or another mileage basis. The agreement should define how mileage is calculated.

Why can two similar loads have different fuel surcharges?

Different contracts may use different peg prices, fuel economy assumptions, mileage methods, and update schedules.

Why does the surcharge sometimes lag behind pump prices?

Many schedules are updated weekly using published diesel averages, while retail fuel prices can change every day. That timing difference can create a short-term gap.

Should owner-operators compare FSC or total load revenue?

Total load revenue is more useful because linehaul, fuel surcharge, deadhead, detention, and operating costs all affect the final result.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 28, 2026

The post Understanding Fuel Surcharges in Trucking and How They Affect Freight Rates appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Although pay varies by experience, endorsements, freight type and employer, understanding Ohio’s trucking market can help drivers compare opportunities and make informed career decisions.

What Is the Average Truck Driver Salary in Ohio?

According to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Ohio earn an average annual wage of $59,800, or about $28.75 per hour. Drivers in the highest earning 10% make more than $77,650 annually, while entry-level wages generally begin around $43,670. These figures represent statewide averages across a variety of trucking jobs, and actual earnings can vary depending on the position and compensation structure. (onetonline.org)

Ohio’s Freight Network Supports Strong Driver Demand

Ohio sits at the crossroads of several major freight corridors, with Interstates 70, 71, 75, 76, 77, 80 and 90 connecting the Midwest with the Northeast and Southeast. The state’s manufacturing, automotive, food processing and distribution industries generate freight throughout the year, creating consistent opportunities for professional drivers.

Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Toledo, Dayton and Akron remain among the state’s busiest trucking markets because they are home to large warehouse developments, manufacturing facilities and intermodal operations.

Different Driving Jobs Offer Different Earning Potential

The type of driving job often has a greater impact on earnings than location alone.

Local drivers are commonly paid by the hour and may qualify for overtime depending on the employer. Regional positions often combine regular home time with competitive weekly earnings, while over-the-road jobs typically provide greater mileage opportunities for drivers willing to spend more time away from home.

Specialized freight can also increase earning potential. Tanker, hazardous materials, oversized freight, and automotive hauling frequently require additional endorsements or experience, but those qualifications may lead to higher-paying opportunities. LTL linehaul positions also remain competitive throughout Ohio, particularly around major freight terminals.

Endorsements Can Expand Career Opportunities

Additional CDL endorsements do not automatically increase pay, but they can qualify drivers for jobs that are unavailable to those holding only a Class A CDL.

HazMat, tanker and doubles/triples endorsements allow drivers to pursue specialized freight, while a clean driving record and experience operating different equipment often strengthen employment opportunities with larger carriers.

Drivers who continue adding qualifications throughout their careers generally have access to a wider range of positions as hiring needs change.

Experience Continues to Influence Earnings

Most drivers see their largest wage increases during the first several years of their careers.

After building accident-free experience, many become eligible for dedicated routes, specialized freight and positions that require a proven safety record. Employers frequently consider both driving history and equipment experience when filling higher-paying jobs, making consistent performance just as valuable as years behind the wheel.

Total Compensation Includes More Than Base Pay

Comparing job offers based only on annual salary or cents per mile can overlook other valuable benefits.

Health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, detention pay, layover pay, safety bonuses and tuition reimbursement all contribute to total compensation. Some employers also reimburse tolls, parking and other work-related expenses, reducing out-of-pocket costs throughout the year.

Reviewing the complete compensation package often provides a better comparison than focusing on mileage pay alone.

Finding the Right Fit

Ohio’s trucking industry offers opportunities in nearly every freight segment, from local delivery routes to long-haul operations serving customers across the country.

Drivers comparing job offers should consider freight consistency, home time, equipment quality, advancement opportunities, and benefits alongside starting pay. A position that provides stable freight and long-term career growth may offer greater value than one advertising only a slightly higher wage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average truck driver salary in Ohio?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers in Ohio earn an average annual wage of approximately $59,800. (onetonline.org)

Which Ohio cities have the strongest demand for CDL drivers?

Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Toledo, Dayton, and Akron remain among Ohio’s largest freight markets because of their manufacturing, warehouse, and distribution activity.

Do local truck drivers earn less than OTR drivers?

Not necessarily. Local positions often include hourly wages and overtime opportunities, while OTR drivers generally have greater mileage potential. Overall earnings depend on the employer, freight type, and schedule.

Which endorsements can increase earning potential?

HazMat, tanker and doubles/triples endorsements can open the door to additional job opportunities and specialized freight.

Does Ohio have a strong trucking industry?

Yes. Ohio’s location, interstate system and manufacturing base make it one of the country’s most active freight states.

Is truck driver pay in Ohio above the national average?

Yes. Current Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows Ohio’s average annual wage for heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers is slightly above the national average. (onetonline.org)

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 28, 2026

The post Ohio Truck Driver Pay Guide: What CDL Drivers Can Expect appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.